Red Sox Activate Kelly Johnson, Send Mookie Betts To Pawtucket

Kelly Johnson of the Boston Red Sox prepares to take fielding practice before a game with the New York Yankees at Fenway Park. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)

BOSTON (CBS) — The Red Sox have activated infielder/outfielder Kelly Johnson from the 15-day disabled list, sending down rookie Mookie Betts to clear a roster spot for the utility man.

The 32-year-old Johnson was acquired on deadline day from the New York Yankees in exchange for shortstop Stephen Drew and cash considerations, but was on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right groin when acquired. He had a two-game rehabilitation assignment with Double-A Portland, walking twice and scoring a run, while making one start at first base and one at third base.

Johnson is expected to take over the role previously held by Mike Carp, who played first base, third base and left field (along with one pitching appearance) for Boston before being released last week. Johnson played in 77 games for the Yankees this season between third base (41 games), first base (27), left field (three), second base (one), and right field (one), hitting .219 (44-for-210) with nine doubles, six home runs, and 22 RBI.

The 21-year-old Betts was sent down to Triple-A to get more consistent playing time. He hit .286 (2-for-7) with a run scored over three games (two starts) with the Red Sox in his second career major league stint after being recalled on August 1. In Pawtucket this season, Betts has hit .321 with 12 extra-base hits and 24 RBI in 34 games.

In 88 minor league games this season between Double-A Portland and Pawtucket, Betts hit .342 (120-for-351), combining for 23 doubles, five triples, 11 home runs, 28 RBI and 30 stolen bases.